MODERN CHARACTERISTICS OF BRETON IDENTITY

Abstract

The article examines the contemporary characteristics of Breton identity in the context of the historical, sociocultural, and political development of the Brittany region. The author analyzes the interaction between the preservation of the local language and cultural traditions and the influence of the dominant French culture. Particular attention is paid to the role of cultural and linguistic initiatives, such as bilingual schools and the promotion of Breton music, folklore, and festivals, in sustaining collective self-awareness. Special emphasis is placed on the transformation of traditional markers of identity: language, historical memory, regional symbols, and customs, and their functioning within the contemporary sociocultural space. The role of the Breton language as a key factor of ethnocultural self-identification is examined, along with the activities of educational and civic initiatives aimed at its preservation and promotion. The article also addresses the political dimension of identity, particularly the activities of regional parties and their contribution to the formation of autonomist ideals among the population. The study is based on an analysis of contemporary sociological data, electoral trends, and cultural practices, which makes it possible to outline the dynamics of the transformation of Breton identity under the influence of globalization processes and European integration. Furthermore, the impact of regionalism and cultural tourism on the formation of new forms of Breton identity that combine traditional elements with modern practices is explored. The development trends of the European Union and the processes of globalization significantly affect the transformation of Breton identity, creating both challenges and new opportunities for its preservation. EU policies in the field of cultural diversity and regional development, particularly the concept of a “Europe of Regions,” contribute to institutional support for regional languages and cultures, including Breton, while integrating them into a broader European cultural space. The article concludes that contemporary Breton identity is dynamic in nature, combining local cultural specificity with national and European identities.